Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/marathon-dog-terminal-cancer/
Spencer is a 12-year-old therapy dog with the most adorable hobby. The senior golden retriever loves cheering on runners at the Boston Marathon, which Spencer attends every year, rain or shine.
In October 2021, Spencer even attended the race right after recovering from cancer surgery.
But while Spencer looked like his old self greeting runners from his usual spot between miles 2 and 3, it appears the dog’s cheerleading days are sadly numbered. According to Spencer’s owner, Rich Powers, the dog’s cancer is back–and this time it’s terminal.
“We heard from the Doc last night but could not post while we tried to process it,” Powers wrote in a heartbreaking Facebook post. “Sadly the tumor was not benign.”
Spencer has a rare type of splenic tumor. But though such cancer can be aggressive, Spencer’s “low-grade” cancer was at least caught early, meaning he still has “quality time” left with his owner.
We know so many have been waiting and we finally have a Spencer Update for today’s “Pupdate”. We heard from the Doc…
Posted by Rich Powers on Tuesday, December 14, 2021
“Removing the tumor and spleen was the best move we could have done,” wrote Powers, who is heartbroken but determined to cherish whatever time Spencer has left.
“We almost lost this miracle boy over a year ago and are so grateful for the amazing extra time we received with him,” wrote Powers. “We are doing our best at fighting back the tears while we realize our time with this amazing boy is limited.”
“We are constantly reminding ourselves HE IS STILL HERE there will be plenty of time for tears later,” the dog’s owner added. “We love him more than can be measured and will continue to treasure him.”
Powers reports Spencer is “recovering wonderfully” after his latest surgery and feeling “strong,” so much so that the dog wants to run and play frisbee whenever he can. There’s even a chance Spencer might be able to attend next year’s marathon, which will be held in April 2022.
“We will live every day as we have been until he cannot any longer,” wrote Powers. This will include doing the things Spencer loves, like long walks, swimming, frisbee, and his therapy dog visits.
“Please continue the positive thoughts and energy it has kept him here,” wrote Powers, who is also raising money for golden retriever cancer research in Spencer’s honor. “THANK YOU to all who love and care about this special pup.”
Find out more in the video:
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Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog
